Disguising the taste of antiretrovirals for pediatric patients infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome: creative flavor compounding and techniques, part 2

Int J Pharm Compd. 2013 Nov-Dec;17(6):446-50.

Abstract

Adherence to antiretrovirals for pediatric patients is challenging for a variety of reasons, many of which are quite obvious. The medication's taste and texture may contribute to a child's resistance to following their regimen. To make the problem of compliance even more complex, there are fewer pediatric-friendly formulations available and fewer alternative options for antiretrovirals when compared to formulations and alternatives available to adults. For the sake of compliance, it is vital that parents and/or caregivers be offered innovative ways to disguise the taste of antiretrovirals for pediatric patients infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. Compounding pharmacists can play an important role in finding answers to this situation. This article provides an in-depth discussion on some of the specific flavoring and taste-masking options that are available in the effort to increase adherence in the pediatric patient population.

MeSH terms

  • Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / drug therapy*
  • Anti-Retroviral Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
  • Child
  • Drug Compounding*
  • Flavoring Agents / administration & dosage*
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Taste

Substances

  • Anti-Retroviral Agents
  • Flavoring Agents